DNA helps get information about physical traits or genetic features in a body. With the help of knowledge of a person’s DNA, doctors can not only trace your ancestors, but forensics can also help solve crimes. It is the blueprint on which everyone’s life is designed. Moreover, DNA also helps genetic engineers discover deadly diseases and genetic mutations.
DNA is a very intriguing substance present naturally in every species. Let’s discuss more about it.
What is DNA?
DNA is a vast molecule found in every organism and contains instructions for an organism. A chemical bond usually holds the atoms of DNA together. You may have seen computer codes in your life. DNA is just like a code for an organism. The genetic information in DNA is stored in the form of a chemical code. This code contains four nucleotide bases. These are:
- 01Adenine
- 02Thymine
- 03Cytosine
- 04Guanine
A gene contains DNA. It is a long string that carries the DNA and has instructions for making a specific product that can grow and function in the future. For instance, in human beings, parents pass down their genes (DNA code) to their children.
Storage of Genetic Information
- An organism’s genetic information is stored in DNA, a sequence of base pairs between its two strands.
- DNA is a self-replicating molecule. It replicates the genetic information before the cell divides. Due to self-replication, the code of DNA is passed down from the organism to its offspring.
- Furthermore, DNA transcribes copies of genetic code into mRNA. The mRNA then starts protein synthesis.
Significance of DNA
The innovations from studying DNA and similar research can go on to help technology and medicine in humans. These are essential developments used to treat deadly diseases, genetically inherited disorders, and genetic mutations. Moreover, by manipulating the code of DNA, DNA also helps biotechnologists and governs the development of drugs and supplements.
Today, CRISPR technology is evolving in the world of medicine and technology. No, a scientist can apply CRISPR technology to edit the genetic code of the DNA molecules, which cures a genetic disorder before its symptoms appear. Ancestry research is standard these days, and it also uses DNA.
Ancestry research using DNA is called DNA testing for genealogy. It helps those who want to learn the history of their ancestors. Thus, DNA helps family members find their long-lost relatives. It also helps in research about human migration patterns.
Moreover, DNA also helps in the production of proteins in organisms. Two processes, transcription, and translation, are responsible for the production of proteins by DNA.
8 Interesting Facts About DNA
Following are some interesting facts about the DNA.
DNA is Strechable
DNA is so stretchable that it can easily stretch to 68 billion miles. If you take the DNA out of your body and line it up, it will be enough to circle two or three planets nearly 150 times.
DNA is Durable
DNA can survive for up to a thousand years. It is so durable that scientists can easily preserve it for further study and research. Moreover, if well-preserved, it can even be used for genealogy and provide history about extinct species.
Humans and Bananas Share DNA
Humans and bananas share DNA. Our 60% DNA is the same as that of a banana. Moreover, about 98.7% of human and banana DNA is shared with chimpanzees, a class of monkeys. This connectivity also proves that all life on earth is connected.
DNA Undergoes Constant Mutations
DNA is a substance that constantly mutates. Some constant mutations are harmless; however, some may lead to severe genetic disorders which include sickle cell anemia (a genetically inherited blood disorder) and cystic fibrosis (a defective gene disorder).
Some DNA mutations are not harmful and contribute to evolution. Such mutations have enabled multiple species across the globe to cope with different environments.
A case in point would be the genetic mutation, which allows some individuals to break down lactose in adulthood, a feature of evolution.
DNA Helps in Forensic Studies
Forensic scientists use DNA to identify criminal suspects. Even a minuscule trace of DNA deposited at a crime scene can connect a suspect to the evidence. This method has transformed how law enforcement investigates crimes and solves numerous cold cases.
Beyond its role in solving crimes, DNA has also been used to exonerate people wrongly convicted. DNA evidence has overturned wrongful convictions and exonerated the wrongfully imprisoned.
99.9% Similar With Other DNAs
For all the variety among humans, 99.9 percent of the DNA sequences in all humans are identical. That 0.1% difference gives people individual characteristics — the color of hair and eyes, even personality traits.
This small genetic variation accounts for inherited traits and some disease susceptibilities. Understanding these differences enables researchers to design targeted medical therapies and disease prevention methods.
Your Body Has Bacterial DNA
Our contains more bacterial DNA than human DNA. Our gut contains a collection of bacteria that helps digest food and maintain immune responses. Studies show that gut bacteria are present in vast amounts in our bodies. Therefore, we contain more bacterial DNA than human DNA. Furthermore, our bacterial DNA helps treat conditions like depression, obesity, and autoimmune disorders through biological modifications.
DNA Testing Helps in Genealogy
DNA testing for Genealogy has helped many people find their long-lost relatives. DNA databases have successfully connected people to relatives they never knew existed, often leading to family reunions after a long time. DNA testing has also been beneficial in providing new concepts for historical figures. DNA testing has also been used to solve many disputes regarding claims about ancestry and help people settle their past.
Conclusion
DNA is exceptional. It keeps the secrets of our past, the forms we are in today, and our future. Thanks to progress in genetics, we can detect our descendants, improve the health care system, and even store data using DNA.
Forensic sciences, medical research, genealogy, and other topics continue to baffle many due to the wonders of DNA. Understanding how DNA works is one of the most important things a person has to learn as it reveals what life can offer, along with groundbreaking devastations in medicine, science, and technology.
DNA is already solving problems and endorsing acceptable innovation in crime investigation and disease treatments, leading the world to a healthier tomorrow.
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